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High gloss blackout film

High gloss blackout film has helped an Asian vehicle manufacturer lift the perceived quality of its vehicles and make them more competitive in European markets. The cost of change was minimal.

The Challenge:

In challenging economic conditions, European markets are moving towards vehicles that offer a premium look and feel combined with the value of a high volume product. To address this opportunity, an Asian manufacturer of affordable, well-engineered family cars wanted to bring the look and feel of its high-line models more in-line with European perceptions of premium quality.

To maintain competitive pricing, options for new exterior trim components were limited. Additional trim mouldings had already been evaluated and for the majority of locations had been rejected because of their additional cost and weight and the cost of fixings and corrosion protection.

The challenge presented to 3M was to help deliver the premium look proposed by the design team, but without significant part-costs and without the need for additional capital investment or manufacturing complexity..

The Solution:

Using 3M Blackout Films, the vehicle’s designers were able to deliver the required premium look as well as updating the vehicle styling by giving the impression of a larger glass area. For this application, a high-gloss finish was chosen to provide additional differentiation.

3M also worked with the vehicle manufacturer to simplify manufacturing processes and ensure consistently high first-time quality. The company’s UK specialists designed and supplied fitting tools and jigs so that the film components could be quickly and consistently aligned and the unique ‘micro-comply’ adhesive helped reduce the time required to achieve a bubble free application.

Applications support – 3M can design the blackout film component for each application and manage the full implementation from its UK technical facility, including materials validation, the development and supply of fitting systems and operator training.

Cost reduction – component costs are substantially less than moulded trim alternatives, as are tooling and fitting costs.

Weight reduction – the weight of 3M Blackout Film is almost zero.

Complete range – 3M Blackout Films are available in textured, smooth and high gloss finishes for interior and exterior applications.

Care of the environment – films can be specified in recyclable PVC-free materials.

Applications

Vehicle pillars,

Dashboard,

Windows frames / extensions,

Grilles,

Bodywork covers,

Hole covers,

Closure sashes.

Challenge us to save you money

Let 3M undertake a free review of opportunities to use blackout film to increase vehicle differentiation, extend life cycles and increase competitiveness. Our UK blackout specialists have significant experience in manufacturing cost-down and will be happy to walk your line to discuss areas where 3M technology can help improve manufacturing efficiency.